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Beating-Heart Surgery for Treating Coronary Artery Narrowing: Technique and Latest Outcomes

Wed , April 29 2026 / 03:11 PM By: Dr. Mahmoud El-Degwy Ahmed 18 min read
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Beating-heart surgery is considered one of the most advanced techniques in treating coronary artery stenosis, where the operation is performed without stopping the heart using highly precise methods that help reduce complications and improve outcomes.

Beating Heart Surgery in Mohandessin | Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy and Coronary Artery Surgery

Beating heart surgery in Mohandessin is one of the advanced surgical techniques used in selected cases of coronary artery disease, particularly when coronary arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked. This approach allows coronary artery bypass surgery to be performed while the heart continues beating, without using a heart-lung bypass machine in appropriate cases. Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy Ahmed, Professor and Consultant of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Kasr Al Ainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, provides specialized care for patients requiring coronary artery surgery in Mohandessin, open-heart surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting, and heart valve repair or replacement. His treatment approach is based on a comprehensive assessment of each patient, careful review of cardiac investigations and coronary angiography, and selection of the most appropriate surgical technique according to the individual case. Minimally invasive surgery and thoracoscopic techniques are also considered whenever medically appropriate, with careful postoperative follow-up to support safe recovery.

Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy Cardiothoracic Surgeon

📍 Clinic Locations of Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy

📍 Mohandessin Branch

ABC Hospital Clinics, First Syria Street from the Arab League Mosque side, Mohandessin, Giza.

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📍 Heliopolis Branch

70 Abdel Aziz Fahmy Street, Saint Fatima Square, Heliopolis, Cairo.

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📍 Maadi Branch

El Horreya Street, El Basatin El Gharbeyah, El Basatin District, Maadi, Cairo.

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📍 Dokki Branch – Be Care

45 El Dokki Street, 4th Floor, above Farghaly Juices, next to Dokki Metro Station, Giza.

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📞 Contact and Book an Appointment

💳 Consultation Fee: EGP 600.

⏰ Working Hours: Evening appointments by prior booking and registration.

📞 Booking Numbers: 01223822588 / 01110691461

💬 WhatsApp: 01110691461

✉️ Email: [email protected]

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What Is Beating Heart Surgery?

Beating heart surgery, also known as off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB), is a surgical technique that may be used to perform coronary artery bypass grafting while the heart continues to beat.

Unlike traditional on-pump bypass surgery, the heart-lung bypass machine is not used during an off-pump procedure. Specialized surgical devices are used to stabilize the specific area of the heart where the surgeon is performing the bypass.

The main goal of coronary artery bypass surgery is to create a new pathway for blood flow around a narrowed or blocked coronary artery, helping improve blood supply to the heart muscle.

Beating heart surgery is not automatically suitable for every patient. The appropriate technique depends on the patient's coronary anatomy, general health, heart function, and the complexity and location of the coronary artery blockages.

Coronary artery bypass surgery illustration showing bypass grafts around blocked coronary arteries

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in Mohandessin

The term coronary artery bypass surgery refers to a surgical procedure that creates a new route for blood flow around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.

During coronary artery bypass grafting, a healthy blood vessel from another part of the patient's body may be used to create a bypass around the blocked section of a coronary artery.

In selected cases, coronary artery bypass surgery can be performed using the beating heart technique. The heart continues beating while the surgeon uses specialized stabilization devices to work on the targeted coronary artery.

The choice of technique depends on the number of affected coronary arteries, the location and complexity of the blockages, the patient's overall health, heart function, and the feasibility of achieving appropriate coronary revascularization.

When Is Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Needed?

Not every patient with a narrowed or blocked coronary artery requires bypass surgery.

The decision is based on several important factors, including:

  • Severity of coronary artery narrowing or blockage.
  • Number of coronary arteries affected.
  • Location of the blockages.
  • Complexity of coronary artery disease.
  • Heart muscle function.
  • The patient's overall health.
  • Results of coronary angiography and cardiac investigations.
  • Whether medication or catheter-based treatment is appropriate.
  • Whether adequate coronary revascularization can be achieved surgically.

Coronary artery bypass grafting may be recommended when the patient's condition and coronary anatomy make surgical revascularization an appropriate treatment option.

Open Heart Surgery and Coronary Artery Disease

Open heart surgery and coronary artery surgery are closely associated with the surgical treatment of certain advanced cases of coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery bypass grafting is one of the major surgical procedures used to create new pathways for blood flow around narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.

However, the technique used to perform the operation may differ from one patient to another.

In traditional coronary artery bypass surgery, a heart-lung bypass machine may be used to support blood circulation and oxygenation during the procedure. In contrast, during beating heart surgery, the heart continues beating and the heart-lung bypass machine is not used.

Therefore, the primary difference is not necessarily the goal of the operation, but rather the surgical technique used to perform coronary artery bypass grafting.

The appropriate approach is determined after a detailed assessment of the patient's heart and coronary arteries.

Difference Between Beating Heart Surgery and Traditional Bypass Surgery

The main differences can be summarized as follows:

Beating Heart Surgery

  • The heart continues beating during the procedure.
  • A heart-lung bypass machine is not used.
  • The surgical area is stabilized using specialized devices.
  • It may be used for selected coronary artery bypass procedures.

Traditional On-Pump Coronary Bypass

  • A heart-lung bypass machine supports blood circulation and oxygenation.
  • The heart may be temporarily stopped during the traditional procedure.
  • The technique provides a different surgical environment for performing the bypass grafts.

There is no single surgical technique that is appropriate for every patient. The decision depends on the patient's coronary anatomy, heart function, overall health, and the complexity of the required bypass procedure.

Open heart surgery performed by a cardiac surgery team

How Is Beating Heart Surgery Performed?

The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient and a detailed review of the coronary arteries to determine which vessels require bypass grafting.

During off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery, the surgical team accesses the heart and identifies the targeted coronary arteries.

Specialized stabilization devices are then used to reduce movement in the specific area of the beating heart where the surgeon needs to work.

A suitable blood vessel is used as a graft to create a new pathway around the blocked section of the coronary artery.

After the bypass grafts are completed, the surgical team evaluates blood flow and confirms the integrity of the grafts before completing the operation and beginning postoperative care.

Who May Be a Candidate for Beating Heart Surgery?

A patient's symptoms alone are not enough to determine whether beating heart surgery is appropriate.

The technique may be suitable for selected patients, while another surgical approach may be more appropriate for others.

Factors considered may include:

  • Number of coronary arteries requiring bypass.
  • Complexity of the coronary blockages.
  • Location of the affected arteries.
  • Heart muscle function.
  • Overall health condition.
  • Other medical conditions.
  • Condition of the aorta.
  • Accessibility of the target coronary arteries.
  • Possibility of achieving appropriate coronary revascularization.

A complete medical and surgical evaluation should therefore be performed before deciding on the surgical technique.

Potential Features of Beating Heart Surgery

One of the defining characteristics of off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery is that the heart continues beating during the procedure and a heart-lung bypass machine is not used.

This approach may be considered for selected patients based on the assessment of the cardiac surgeon.

However, the potential benefits and risks vary from one patient to another. Therefore, beating heart surgery should not automatically be considered the best option for every patient.

Is Beating Heart Surgery Safer?

There is no single answer that applies to every patient.

Every major cardiac procedure has potential risks and considerations. The choice between off-pump and on-pump coronary bypass depends on the patient's condition, coronary anatomy, surgical requirements, and the experience of the cardiac surgery team.

A thorough preoperative assessment is therefore an essential part of selecting the appropriate surgical approach.

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease may cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Chest pain or pressure.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Fatigue during physical activity.
  • Pain that may extend to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw.
  • Reduced ability to perform normal physical activities.

Symptoms vary between patients and may not accurately indicate the severity of coronary artery disease on their own.

Severe or sudden chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms require urgent medical evaluation.

Importance of Coronary Angiography Before Bypass Surgery

Cardiac investigations help provide a detailed picture of the condition of the coronary arteries and heart muscle.

Depending on the case, the medical team may review:

  • Coronary angiography.
  • Cardiac imaging studies.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG).
  • Echocardiography.
  • Blood tests.
  • Kidney and liver function tests.
  • Medical history and current medications.

These investigations help the cardiac surgery team understand the location and severity of coronary blockages and evaluate the available treatment options.

Best Heart Surgeon in Mohandessin – Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy

The phrase best heart surgeon in Mohandessin is commonly used by patients searching online for a specialist in cardiac and cardiothoracic surgery. However, choosing a surgeon should be based on medical specialization, experience, qualifications, the type of cardiac condition, and the patient's individual needs.

Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy Ahmed is Professor and Consultant of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Kasr Al Ainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, with expertise in a range of complex cardiac and thoracic procedures.

His areas of practice include:

  • Open-heart surgery.
  • Coronary artery bypass surgery.
  • Coronary artery bypass grafting.
  • Heart valve repair and replacement.
  • Congenital heart surgery for children.
  • Thoracic surgery.
  • Minimally invasive thoracic procedures.
  • Minimally invasive surgery when medically appropriate.

His academic and professional background also includes membership in the Royal College of Surgeons of England, in addition to his academic role at Kasr Al Ainy Faculty of Medicine.

Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy's Treatment Philosophy

The treatment philosophy of Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy focuses on using advanced medical knowledge and technology to support patient safety.

He emphasizes a comprehensive and careful clinical assessment before developing the treatment plan, while discussing the available surgical options with patients and their families clearly and transparently.

He also seeks to use minimally invasive surgery and endoscopic techniques whenever the patient's condition makes them medically appropriate, with the aim of supporting recovery and reducing postoperative discomfort when possible.

The surgical technique is not selected simply because it is newer or more advanced. Instead, the decision is based on the patient's individual condition, investigation results, coronary anatomy, and surgical assessment.

🎓 Academic Qualifications and Professional Experience

Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Kasr Al Ainy Faculty of Medicine – Cairo University.

Consultant of Coronary Artery and Heart Valve Surgery

Specialized in coronary artery surgery and heart valve repair and replacement.

Congenital Heart Surgeon for Children

Specialized congenital heart procedures for children and newborns at Abu El Reesh University Hospital.

Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England

In addition to membership in the Egyptian Society of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

What Happens After Beating Heart Surgery?

Recovery after coronary artery bypass surgery requires careful follow-up and adherence to the medical team's instructions.

Postoperative care may include:

  • Monitoring and caring for the surgical wound.
  • Taking prescribed medications as directed.
  • Gradually increasing physical activity according to medical instructions.
  • Following appropriate nutritional recommendations.
  • Managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
  • Regular medical follow-up.
  • Cardiac rehabilitation when recommended.

Recovery time varies from one patient to another depending on the type of surgery, overall health, and individual response to treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beating Heart Surgery

What is beating heart surgery?

Beating heart surgery is a technique used in selected coronary artery bypass procedures where the heart continues beating and a heart-lung bypass machine is not used.

Is beating heart surgery the same as coronary artery bypass surgery?

Coronary artery bypass grafting is the surgical procedure used to create a new pathway for blood flow around blocked coronary arteries, while beating heart surgery refers to one method of performing the bypass while the heart continues beating.

Can coronary artery bypass surgery be performed without stopping the heart?

Yes. Off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) can be performed while the heart continues beating, without using a heart-lung bypass machine.

Is beating heart surgery suitable for every patient?

No. The appropriate technique depends on the patient's coronary anatomy, the number and location of blocked arteries, heart function, overall health, and other clinical factors.

What is the difference between open-heart surgery and beating heart surgery?

Beating heart surgery describes a technique in which the heart continues beating during coronary bypass surgery. Open-heart surgery is a broader term referring to procedures that require surgical access to the heart, and coronary bypass surgery may be performed using different techniques.

When does a patient need coronary artery bypass surgery?

The decision depends on the severity and location of coronary artery disease, the number of affected arteries, coronary angiography results, heart function, and whether medication or catheter-based treatment is sufficient.

Does beating heart surgery require a heart-lung machine?

No. One of the defining features of off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery is that a heart-lung bypass machine is not used.

Does every patient with coronary artery disease need bypass surgery?

No. Some patients may be treated with medication or catheter-based procedures, while others may require coronary artery bypass surgery depending on the severity and pattern of coronary artery disease.

Beating Heart Surgery in Mohandessin with Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy

When a patient has significant coronary artery narrowing or blockage, or has been advised to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting, the first step is a comprehensive assessment of the condition followed by a detailed discussion of the available treatment and surgical options.

Professor Dr. Mahmoud El Degwy Ahmed receives patients at his Mohandessin branch at ABC Hospital Clinics, as well as at his clinics in Heliopolis, Maadi, and Dokki.

The appropriate surgical plan is determined according to each patient's condition, coronary angiography, cardiac investigations, and complete medical assessment.

📞 Appointment and Contact Information

💳 Consultation Fee: EGP 600.

⏰ Appointments: Evening appointments by prior booking and registration.

📞 Booking: 01223822588 / 01110691461

💬 WhatsApp: 01110691461

✉️ Email: [email protected]


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